Hunting Strategies: Hunting with Dogs and Trapping

Dogs

There are several breeds of dogs that can be used for hunting different game species. Some dogs can be used to hunt several types of game animals.

• Pointers are used primarily for upland game birds.
• Retrievers are large, hearty dogs used primarily to retrieve waterfowl; they also can be trained to hunt other game birds.
• Spaniels are used mainly as flushers.
• Hunting Hounds are used to hunt raccoons and rabbits in the Southeast, lions and bears in the West, and deer in some states.

A trained hunting dog can be an excellent hunting partner.

Trapping

Trapping furbearing animals was once a full-time occupation, but now many people enjoy trapping for recreation and additional income.

Trapping is a highly regulated activity, and an element of many wildlife management programs. Local populations of furbearers are controlled, thereby helping to minimize human-wildlife conflicts and mitigate habitat changes brought about by certain furbearer species. Similarly, trapping contributes to the protection of endangered species by controlling their predators. Scientists collect important ecological information about wildlife through the use of trapping by monitoring regulated harvest levels. In addition, trapping can help reduce the exposure of rabies and other diseases to humans and pets. Trapping is widely recognized by the wildlife conservation community as a legitimate and beneficial outdoor activity, providing food, fur for garments, oils for soaps and lubricants, cosmetic items, artists' supplies, and other products. (Source: IAFWA.) For more information, log on to www.ttfha.org.

Trappers should educate themselves about the type of traps appropriate for the animal they're seeking and adhere to the trapper's code of ethics:

• Obtain the landowner's permission.
• Avoid setting traps in areas where domestic animals may be caught.
• Set traps to capture the target animal in the most humane way possible.
• Check traps daily, preferably in the early morning.
• Dispose of animal carcasses properly to avoid offending others.
• Make an effort to trap only the surplus animals from each habitat, leaving an adequate breeding stock.
• Assist farmers and other landowners who are having damage problems with wildlife.
• Obtain all required licenses, tags, and permits.